At least 20 apprentices will start with network members this year

brokerbility academy

Network Brokerbility is trying to help members find top new staff through the launch of an 18 month apprenticeship scheme.

The Brokerbility Academy programme leads to a Chartered Insurance Institute qualification of at least Cert CII as well as offering apprentices a mentor and networking opportunities.

It said the programme would offer a “genuine alternative to university.” 

Brokers have pledged to take on 20 apprentices between them since Brokerbility launched the plans to members last week.

Brokerbility will help members pick suitable candidates for interview by taking applications through a custom made website, which will launch next month.

The website will ask candidates to upload their CV and complete psychometric and verbal reasoning tests. Members will then be given support with face-to-face interview questions.  

Brokerbility is also training the apprentice’s mentors to understand what motivates their new recruits, to minimise programme drop outs.

The government will meet some of the training costs its Insurance Growth Action Plan commitment. It offers the greatest amount of financial support to 16 to 19 year olds.

The scheme was devised by Brokerbility operations manager Sue Dexter and Susan Reeves, HR director at member Alan & Thomas, when the Bournement-based broker had difficulty recruiting good candidates.

Group director David McCallum said: “With the UK experiencing a severe skills shortage, it’s important that Brokerbility and the insurance profession reach out to those talented people who may not have considered a career in insurance or want to advance their career.”

CII chief executive Sandy Scott said: “Brokerbility is leading the way in its absolute commitment to developing the insurance profession for all. The Brokerbility Academy with its innovative recruitment capabilities and accredited apprenticeship programme at its core is unique within the insurance industry.”